Parseword
Transform a cryptic clue until its wordplay matches the definition.
Start with the tutorial · 12 starter puzzles + 2 archived daily puzzles How to play ↓
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HOW TO PLAY
Solve cryptic wordplay by selecting and replacing words in a clue until the result matches its definition. Start with the eight-part tutorial, then try twelve starter puzzles or the archived daily clues. Learn, Play and Challenge offer different levels of help.
- Choose Play Here to open the local game, then start the eight-part Tutorial or the twelve Starter Puzzles. A daily clue is offered only when its real date is included in this snapshot. Help level is a separate setting.
- Find a possible definition and the words that could build an answer. Learn mode reveals the definition and gives extra guidance about the required wordplay.
- Tap a word, tap neighbouring words to extend the selection, or drag across the needed phrase. Read the replacements offered beneath it and choose the one justified by the clue.
- Repeat as necessary: a clue can ask for a synonym, reversal, deletion, anagram, insertion or another indicated transformation. An instruction word explains how to change its neighbouring material.
- Reach the matching answer through those changes. Knowing the answer alone does not finish the puzzle: Parseword requires the transformation path, rather than a typed final guess.
Before you play
- The daily archive covers 26–27 October 2026. After those clues, choose a starter or replay.
- English vocabulary and cryptic wordplay are central to solving. Some video lessons open on YouTube.
Progress stays in this browser and is separate from the original site’s account and statistics.
Game credits
Josh Wardle, Matt Lee and Chris Dary ↗
Independently hosted games keep separate saves and scores from their original sites.